One of the most outstanding local German pioneers and businessmen, Carl Simon
was born near the Rhine, on 24 February 1837 in Argenschwanz, and came
with his parents in 1846 to America, where the family established itself
in Liverpool. When they left Germany, the family possessed about $1,000,
but lost everything because of an accident to the ship. Nothing could
be saved, and they had to completely start over.

His father died in 1849 and Mr. Simon had to support the family. He
learned the shoemaker handicraft and could already make a pair of boots by
himself when he was 15 years old. He has been in business since 1849,
starting his own shoe store in 1853, which he brought from small
beginnings to the present large business.

He served 14 years in the 51st militia regiment and became the Captain
of Co. B. He was furthermore one of the founders and vice-president of
the Woodlawn-Kirchhofs. From 1868-74 he was City Assessor and was
elected in the autumn of 1874 as a representative of the 3rd Assembly
district of the State Legislature. He was the first Democrat elected in
many years in this district.

In 1891 the German pioneer association was created by his efforts, he
becoming the 1st Vice-president. Now he has for several years been the
president of the same. Since 1863 he belongs to the Salt City Lodge No.
501, F. & A. M. (Free and Accepted Masons); member of Central City
Chapter No. 70 R. A. M. (Royal Arch Masons); and Central City Commandery No. 25, K. T.
(Knights Templar).

He was furthermore one of the founders of the Germania Brewing Co.,
whose first president he was. He made a journey to Germany and after
his return helped to organize the Crystal Brewing Co., at which time he
became its president for 3 years.

In 1856 he married Ms. Katharine Poehlmann, from which marriage 10
children issued, of whom 2 died prematurely. He lives at No. 715
Danforth Street.

English translation contributed on 29 October 2002 by Pete Pierce (pete.genealogy@sbcglobal.net),
great-great-grandson of Carl Simon.